LAX takes next steps in automated people mover process

Los Angeles World Airports board has approved LAX Integrated Express Solutions as the recommended developer for the planned automated people mover at the airport.

The decision sets in motion the path towards full contract approval by Los Angeles City Council in April to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the new light-weight rail system.

LINXS’ proposal had the highest technical score and the lowest cost proposal of the three teams that participated in the procurement process.

LAWA will present a 30-year contract valued at approximately $4.5 billion to the BOAC and City Council for approval.

The contract includes milestone payments for the design and construction phases, as well as authorizes future payments for operating and maintaining the APM for the contract period.

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“Los Angeles relies on LAX to power our economy forward — that’s why we’re making historic investments to ensure it remains one of the most passenger-friendly airports in the world,” said Los Angeles mayor Eric Garcetti.

“Today’s recommendation brings us one step closer to a people mover that will provide Angelenos and travellers from everywhere with reliable, convenient transportation to and from the terminals.”

BOAC approved an early works agreement with LINXS, valued at up to $42M, which will allow pre-construction activities such as hiring, soil testing, engineering, and furthering design of the APM.

The contract approval is important to maintain schedule to complete the project in 2023.

The APM will be built using a public-private partnership contracting model.

LINXS will be designing and constructing the system and will also be responsible for operating and maintaining the train and stations for a 30-year period.

This incentivises the construction and operating systems to be built to last.